How Big Is Panama Compared To The Us? Discover the geographical, economic, and cultural differences between these two countries with this detailed comparison from COMPARE.EDU.VN, helping you make informed decisions. Explore population, economy, infrastructure, and more to understand the scale and scope of each nation.
1. General Information
Understanding the basic facts about Panama and the United States sets the stage for a deeper comparison. Panama, nestled in Central America, offers a unique blend of cultures and landscapes, while the United States, spanning a vast area in North America, presents a diverse range of environments and economies.
| Panama | United States | |
|---|---|---|
| Region: | Central America | North America |
| Area: | 75,420 km² (29,120 sq mi) | 9,525,067 km² (3,677,649 sq mi) |
| Government Form: | Presidential republic | Federal presidential republic |
| Capital: | Panama City | Washington, D.C. |
1.1. Geographical Area
The most striking difference between Panama and the United States is their size. Panama’s area is approximately 75,420 square kilometers, while the United States boasts a vast 9,525,067 square kilometers. This means the US is roughly 126 times larger than Panama. This massive difference in land area impacts everything from climate and natural resources to infrastructure and population distribution.
1.2. Government Structure
Both Panama and the United States operate as republics, but their specific structures differ. Panama is a presidential republic, where the president is both the head of state and head of government. The United States, on the other hand, is a federal presidential republic, with power divided between a federal government and individual state governments. The US also has a more complex system of checks and balances among its three branches of government: executive, legislative, and judicial.
2. Population Demographics
Population size and demographics play a critical role in shaping a country’s economy, social structure, and overall development. Comparing Panama’s and the United States’ populations reveals significant differences in density, life expectancy, and age distribution.
| Panama | United States | |
|---|---|---|
| Population: | 4,459,000 | 334,915,000 |
| Inhabitants/km²: | 59.1 | 35.2 |
| Life Expectancy (Males): | Ø 74 years | Ø 75 years |
| Life Expectancy (Females): | Ø 80 years | Ø 80 years |
| Average Age: | Ø 31.5 years | Ø 38.9 years |
| Birth Rate: | 17.40 ‰ | 11.00 ‰ |
| Death Rate: | 5.90 ‰ | 9.80 ‰ |
| Migration Rate: | 1.63 ‰ | 3.95 ‰ |
2.1. Population Size and Density
The United States has a significantly larger population than Panama, with approximately 334.9 million people compared to Panama’s 4.459 million. However, Panama has a higher population density, with 59.1 inhabitants per square kilometer versus the United States’ 35.2. This indicates that, on average, more people live within a given area in Panama than in the US.
2.2. Life Expectancy and Average Age
Life expectancy is similar for both countries, with males in Panama averaging 74 years and females 80 years. In the United States, males average 75 years, and females 80 years. However, the average age in the United States is higher, at 38.9 years, compared to Panama’s 31.5 years, suggesting a relatively younger population in Panama.
2.3. Birth and Death Rates
Panama has a higher birth rate (17.40 ‰) than the United States (11.00 ‰), contributing to its younger population. Conversely, the United States has a higher death rate (9.80 ‰) compared to Panama (5.90 ‰), which may be attributed to its older average population.
2.4. Migration
The migration rate, which measures the net number of migrants per 1,000 population, is higher in the United States (3.95 ‰) than in Panama (1.63 ‰). This indicates that the US attracts more immigrants relative to its population size than Panama.
3. Quality of Life
Quality of life indicators provide insights into the living conditions and overall well-being of a country’s residents. These indicators often include factors such as political stability, civil rights, healthcare, climate, and cost of living.
| Panama | United States | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Stability: | 71 | 72 |
| Civil Rights: | 45 | 82 |
| Health: | 59 | 75 |
| Climate: | 43 | 71 |
| Cost of Living: | 44 | 32 |
| Popularity: | 40 | 75 |
3.1. Political Stability and Civil Rights
Both Panama and the United States enjoy relatively high levels of political stability. However, the United States scores significantly higher in civil rights, indicating stronger protections for individual freedoms and legal rights compared to Panama.
3.2. Healthcare and Climate
The United States outperforms Panama in healthcare, reflecting its more advanced medical infrastructure and services. Similarly, the US has a higher climate rating, which considers factors like temperature, humidity, and weather patterns. This is influenced by the diverse climate zones present across the US, from tropical to arctic.
3.3. Cost of Living
The cost of living in Panama is considerably lower than in the United States. Panama’s cost of living is about 52.24% of that in the US, making it a more affordable place to live for many. This is a significant factor for retirees and expats considering relocation.
3.4. Popularity
The United States is generally more popular on a global scale, potentially due to its cultural influence, economic opportunities, and tourism attractions. Panama, while growing in popularity, has not yet reached the same level of international recognition.
4. Economic Overview
A country’s economic health is crucial for understanding its development and the opportunities available to its citizens. Key indicators include currency, unemployment rate, inflation rate, average income, and government debt.
| Panama | United States | |
|---|---|---|
| Currency: | Panamanian Balboa (1 PAB = 100 Centesimos) | US Dollar (1 USD = 100 Cents) |
| Unemployment Rate: | 6.5% | 3.6% |
| Inflation Rate: | 1.30% | 3.00% |
| Cost of Living (USA = 100%): | 52.24% | 100.00% |
| Commercial Taxes and Contributions: | 25.00% | 25.63% |
| Average Income: | 17,870 US$ | 80,450 US$ |
| General Government Debt (% of GDP): | 52.39% | 123.01% |
| Corruption Index: | 67 (bad) | 35 (moderate) |
4.1. Currency and Cost of Living
Panama uses the Panamanian Balboa, which is pegged to the US dollar at a 1:1 ratio. The United States uses the US dollar, the world’s primary reserve currency. As noted earlier, the cost of living in Panama is significantly lower than in the United States, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle.
4.2. Unemployment and Inflation
The United States has a lower unemployment rate (3.6%) compared to Panama (6.5%), indicating a stronger labor market. However, the inflation rate is higher in the US (3.00%) than in Panama (1.30%), meaning that the cost of goods and services is increasing more rapidly in the US.
4.3. Average Income and Government Debt
The average income in the United States is substantially higher than in Panama, reflecting the advanced nature of the US economy. However, the general government debt as a percentage of GDP is significantly higher in the US (123.01%) compared to Panama (52.39%). This suggests that the US government has a larger debt burden relative to the size of its economy.
4.4. Corruption Index
The corruption index, which measures the perceived level of public sector corruption, is lower in the United States (35) than in Panama (67). A lower score indicates less perceived corruption. This suggests that the US has stronger institutions and governance structures to combat corruption compared to Panama.
5. Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
GDP is a key metric for measuring the overall economic output of a country. Comparing GDP and related figures for Panama and the United States provides insights into the scale and structure of their economies.
| PAN:total | per 1000 inh. | USA:total | per 1000 inh. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gross Domestic Product: | 83,318 M US$ | 18.69 M US$ | 27,720,709 M US$ | 82.77 M US$ |
| Gross National Product: | 79,686 M US$ | 17.87 M US$ | 26,944,999 M US$ | 80.45 M US$ |
| Exported Goods: | 36,569 M US$ | 8.20 M US$ | 3,071,813 M US$ | 9.17 M US$ |
| Imported Goods: | 36,135 M US$ | 8.10 M US$ | 3,856,704 M US$ | 11.52 M US$ |
5.1. GDP and GNP
The United States has a vastly larger GDP and Gross National Product (GNP) than Panama. This reflects the sheer size and complexity of the US economy, which is one of the largest in the world. On a per capita basis, the US also outperforms Panama, indicating higher economic productivity per person.
5.2. Exports and Imports
Both countries engage in significant international trade. The United States has much larger values for both exported and imported goods, reflecting its role as a major global trading partner. However, when considering exports and imports per 1000 inhabitants, the figures are relatively closer, indicating that international trade is a significant component of both economies.
6. Infrastructure Comparison
Infrastructure is essential for economic development and the overall quality of life. Comparing the infrastructure of Panama and the United States reveals the differences in their development priorities and capabilities.
| PAN:total | per 1000 inh. | USA:total | per 1000 inh. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Railways: | 77 km | 0.02 km | 293,564 km | 0.88 km |
| Waterways: | 800 km | 0.18 km | 41,009 km | 0.12 km |
| Passenger Airports: | 16 | 0.0036 | 635 | 0.0019 |
6.1. Railways
The United States has a much more extensive railway network than Panama. This reflects the historical importance of railways in the US for transporting goods and passengers across vast distances. On a per capita basis, the US also has more railway infrastructure.
6.2. Waterways
While the total length of waterways is greater in the United States, Panama has a higher length of waterways per 1000 inhabitants. This highlights the importance of waterways for transportation and commerce in Panama, particularly given the Panama Canal’s strategic role.
6.3. Airports
The United States boasts a significantly larger number of passenger airports compared to Panama. However, Panama has a higher number of airports per 1000 inhabitants, indicating a relatively greater focus on air travel infrastructure within the country.
7. Energy Balance
Energy production, consumption, and emissions are crucial indicators of a country’s environmental impact and sustainability. Comparing the energy balance of Panama and the United States highlights the differences in their energy strategies.
| PAN:total | per 1000 inh. | USA:total | per 1000 inh. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Production Capacity: | 38,841.8 GWh | 8,711.36 MWh | 10,520,760.0 GWh | 31,413.23 MWh |
| Energy Consumption: | 11,608.0 GWh | 2,603.41 MWh | 4,128,000.0 GWh | 12,325.52 MWh |
| Energy Production: | 13,355.2 GWh | 2,995.27 MWh | 4,291,777.0 GWh | 12,814.53 MWh |
| Energy Export: | 502.0 GWh | 112.59 MWh | 15,758.0 GWh | 47.05 MWh |
| Energy Import: | 69.8 GWh | 15.66 MWh | 56,970.0 GWh | 170.10 MWh |
| CO2 Emissions: | 21.28 m t | 4,773.01 t | 5.96 bn t | 17,797.97 t |
7.1. Energy Production and Consumption
The United States has a vastly larger energy production capacity and consumption rate than Panama, reflecting its larger economy and population. On a per capita basis, the US also consumes more energy than Panama, indicating a higher energy intensity.
7.2. Energy Trade
The United States is a significant importer of energy, while Panama’s energy imports are relatively small. The US also exports a substantial amount of energy, reflecting its role as a major player in the global energy market.
7.3. CO2 Emissions
The United States produces significantly higher CO2 emissions than Panama, reflecting its larger economy and higher energy consumption. On a per capita basis, the US also has much higher CO2 emissions, indicating a greater environmental impact.
8. Telecommunication Infrastructure
Telecommunication infrastructure is vital for economic activity and social connectivity. Comparing Panama’s and the United States’ telecommunication sectors provides insights into their digital readiness.
| Panama | United States | |
|---|---|---|
| International Dialing: | +507 | +1 |
| Internet Domain: | .pa | .us |
| PANtotal | PANper 1000inh. | USAtotal | USAper 1000inh. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Landlines: | 811,350 | 182 | 87,987,000 | 263 |
| Mobile Cellulars: | 6,980,000 | 1565 | 386,000,000 | 1153 |
| Internet Users: | 3,464,456 | 777 | 308,791,533 | 922 |
| Broadband Internet: | 809,000 | 181 | 131,000,000 | 391 |
8.1. Landlines and Mobile Cellulars
The United States has a higher total number of landlines and mobile cellular subscriptions than Panama. However, Panama has a higher number of mobile cellular subscriptions per 1000 inhabitants, indicating a greater reliance on mobile communication.
8.2. Internet Usage
The United States has a higher total number of internet users and broadband internet subscriptions than Panama. On a per capita basis, the US also has more internet users and broadband subscriptions, reflecting its more advanced digital infrastructure.
9. Healthcare System
Healthcare systems are crucial for the well-being of a nation. Comparing the healthcare systems of Panama and the United States provides insights into their strengths and weaknesses.
| Panama | United States | |
|---|---|---|
| Hospital Beds per 1000 inh.: | 1.92 | 2.74 |
| Physicians per 1000 inh.: | 1.73 | 3.61 |
| HIV: | 6.00 ‰ | 1.70 ‰ |
| Tuberculosis: | 0.58 ‰ | 0.03 ‰ |
| Diabetes: | 8.2% | 10.7% |
| Smokers: | 5.0% | 9.0% |
9.1. Healthcare Resources
The United States has more hospital beds and physicians per 1000 inhabitants than Panama, indicating a more robust healthcare infrastructure. This is consistent with the higher healthcare rating observed earlier.
9.2. Health Indicators
Panama has a higher prevalence of HIV and tuberculosis compared to the United States. However, the prevalence of diabetes and smokers is higher in the US. These differences reflect variations in lifestyle, public health policies, and access to healthcare.
10. Climate Comparison
Climate plays a significant role in shaping a country’s environment and economy. Comparing the climates of Panama and the United States highlights the differences in their weather patterns and environmental conditions.
| Panama | United States | |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime Temperatures: | 30.9 °C (87.6 °F) | 19.1 °C (66.4 °F) |
| Nighttime Temperatures: | 22.7 °C (72.9 °F) | 7.6 °C (45.7 °F) |
| Water Temperature: | 27.0 °C (80.6 °F) | 19.1 °C (66.4 °F) |
| Relative Humidity: | 81% | 67% |
| Rain Days: | 11.8 | 7.1 |
| Sunshine Hours per Day: | 6.1 | 7.2 |
10.1. Temperature and Humidity
Panama has consistently warmer temperatures throughout the day and night compared to the United States. The water temperature is also higher in Panama, reflecting its tropical location. Additionally, Panama has higher relative humidity, making it feel more humid overall.
10.2. Rainfall and Sunshine
Panama experiences more rain days than the United States, while the US has more sunshine hours per day. This reflects the tropical climate of Panama, which is characterized by frequent rainfall, and the diverse climate zones of the US, which include sunny and dry regions.
11. Native Languages
Language diversity reflects a country’s cultural heritage and immigration patterns. Comparing the native languages spoken in Panama and the United States provides insights into their cultural landscapes.
| Panama | United States | |
|---|---|---|
| English: | 13.4% | 82.1% |
| Spanish: | 69.2% | 10.7% |
| English Creole: | 8.2% | n/a |
| Guaymí: | 5.3% | n/a |
| Cuna: | 2.0% | n/a |
| Chinese: | n/a | 0.9% |
| French: | n/a | 0.7% |
| Embera: | 0.6% | n/a |
| Italian: | n/a | 0.6% |
| German: | n/a | 0.6% |
| Tagalog: | n/a | 0.4% |
| Korean: | n/a | 0.3% |
| Polish: | n/a | 0.3% |
| Japanese: | n/a | 0.2% |
| Portuguese: | n/a | 0.2% |
| Russian: | n/a | 0.2% |
| Vietnamese: | n/a | 0.2% |
| Armenian: | n/a | 0.1% |
| Other: | 1.3% | 2.5% |
11.1. Primary Languages
Spanish is the most widely spoken language in Panama, while English is the primary language in the United States. This reflects their respective colonial histories and cultural influences.
11.2. Language Diversity
The United States exhibits greater language diversity, with significant populations speaking Chinese, French, Italian, German, Tagalog, Korean, and other languages. Panama also has indigenous languages such as Guaymí and Cuna, which are not spoken in the US.
12. Religious Affiliations
Religious affiliations reflect a country’s cultural and social values. Comparing the religious demographics of Panama and the United States provides insights into their spiritual landscapes.
| Panama | United States | |
|---|---|---|
| Christianity: | 91.0% | 69.9% |
| Nondenominational: | 7.7% | 23.3% |
| Judaism: | n/a | 1.4% |
| Buddhism: | n/a | 0.8% |
| Islam: | n/a | 0.8% |
| Hinduism: | n/a | 0.5% |
| Other: | 1.3% | 3.3% |
12.1. Dominant Religions
Christianity is the dominant religion in both Panama and the United States. However, the percentage of Christians is higher in Panama than in the US.
12.2. Religious Diversity
The United States exhibits greater religious diversity, with significant populations practicing Judaism, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, and other religions. Panama is predominantly Christian, with a smaller percentage identifying as nondenominational or adhering to other religions.
FAQ Section
Q1: How much bigger is the United States than Panama in terms of land area?
The United States is approximately 126 times larger than Panama in terms of land area.
Q2: What is the population difference between Panama and the US?
The United States has a significantly larger population, with about 334.9 million people compared to Panama’s 4.459 million.
Q3: Which country has a higher cost of living, Panama or the United States?
The cost of living is much higher in the United States. Panama’s cost of living is roughly 52.24% of that in the US.
Q4: What are the primary languages spoken in Panama and the United States?
Spanish is the primary language in Panama, while English is the primary language in the United States.
Q5: How does the average income compare between Panama and the US?
The average income is significantly higher in the United States, at approximately $80,450 USD, compared to Panama’s $17,870 USD.
Q6: What is the unemployment rate in Panama and the United States?
The unemployment rate is 6.5% in Panama and 3.6% in the United States.
Q7: How do the healthcare systems compare between the two countries?
The United States generally has more advanced healthcare infrastructure, with more hospital beds and physicians per capita than Panama.
Q8: What are the CO2 emissions like in Panama compared to the US?
The United States has much higher CO2 emissions, both in total and per capita, compared to Panama.
Q9: How does the climate differ between Panama and the United States?
Panama has a tropical climate with consistently warm temperatures and high humidity, while the United States has a more diverse climate with varying temperatures and humidity levels.
Q10: Which country has a higher level of corruption, according to the Corruption Index?
Panama has a higher Corruption Index score (67) compared to the United States (35), indicating a higher perceived level of corruption.
Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions with COMPARE.EDU.VN
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